Study Finds Americans Overestimate Primary Care Spending by Over 10-Fold

A recent study published in the Annals of Family Medicine highlights a significant disconnect between public perception and actual spending on primary care in the U.S. An online survey of 1,135 adults revealed that respondents estimated primary care accounts for 51.8% of total healthcare spending, while the actual figure is only 4.7%. Furthermore, participants believed primary care meets 58.7% of healthcare needs, aligning closely with actual utilization rates. The findings suggest chronic underinvestment in primary care, contributing to workforce shortages and reduced access to care. The study's lead author emphasized the need for greater public engagement to support policies that reinforce the essential role of primary care in the healthcare system. These misconceptions may impede meaningful discussions about healthcare reforms and investments.